This puppet represents the character Karna from the epic the Mahabharata performed in the Javanese 'wayang kulit' or leather shadow puppet theatre tradition. He is considered as one of the truly tragic figures in the 'wayang'. He is cast by fate to fight against his brothers, the Pandawa (Pandava) and to be killed by one of them. His refined character is reflected in his small eyes and narrow stance although his forward-looking gaze suggests that he is also assertive.The Mahabharata relates the conflict and struggle between two sets of cousins, Pandawa and Korawa (Kaurava), over the rule of the kingdom of Astina (Hastinapura). The Pandawa brothers eventually overcome the Korawa in the Great War, the Bharatayuda. The vast majority of the 'wayang' plays performed are drawn from the two great Hindu epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata as well as local stories of Javanese origin. 'Wayang kulit' is considered the highest of the Javanese performing arts. Performed in the royal courts of Java as early as the ninth century, this tradition continues to be treasured as one of the 'pusaka' or sacred heirlooms of the court. 'Wayang kulit' is traditionally performed on ritual days and religious ceremonies. It has also been adapted more recently for television and public education campaigns.
